From early morning espresso on the way to work to students grabbing an afternoon pick-me-up, Dodo Coffee Shop has earned a reputation as one of the community’s most welcoming spots. Now, the company is preparing to share that spirit in a bigger way: by opening a brand-new location.
The expansion marks an exciting milestone for the growing business, which has built a strong following thanks to its welcoming environment and carefully curated menu. “It's crazy. It’s actually happening”, says owner Isaiah Ojeda, who initially opened up the small shop with no advertising and unsure of what the future would hold, just a year and a half ago. Originally located on Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, the street is now undergoing a multi-year expansion project to widen the road, which resulted in some stores—including Dodo—being torn down. This was a shock to the company, but it has led to an even bigger and more convenient store for many. They’re moving just a little north to a new location right off of Wedington and I-49, at 2568 W McMillan Dr. The new location is set to feature Dodo’s full lineup of classic lattes, cold brews, and specialty seasonal offerings, as well as a few surprises designed exclusively for the space. The team is bringing in an out-of-state architect, Jeffery Dungan, who is helping their West Coast/ Malibu dreams come to life. There will be unique, hard materials like stone, wood, and sand textures, balanced with softer design elements. The group wanted to create something that Fayetteville doesn't have. The Ojedas are also using local artists’ pieces to add personality to the shop. "Our goal here is to turn this place into a community." There will now be 2-3 espresso machines, which is one of the many improvements compared to the original building. The team put so much work into the old building off of MLK, and it will be sad to see it go. In between the old and new location, Dodo has been serving the community in a coffee truck that has been parked in the same parking lot as the new shop, as well as traveling to businesses. Isaiah and his wife, Sarah, have enjoyed getting to serve through the truck and will continue to use it for pop-up events in the future. You can inquire about hosting an event through social media or email via general@dodocoffee.co. Some additional sneak peek items include a large planter, an extravagant tree coming through the building, a double-sided, wood-burning fireplace for all to enjoy, with fans and heaters in the courtyard area. Customers can expect the same warm and inviting design that has become a hallmark of the brand, with comfortable seating, eclectic vibes, and plenty of outlets to encourage both productivity and relaxation. “Seeing it start to take shape has been so amazing and real”, says Ojeda.
Construction on the shop is already underway, with an expected opening date in the fall/winter of 2025. With utilities already installed, concrete laid, the building is now going vertical. Once this process starts, the building will be up in no time. After its opening, the new Dodo Coffee shop will host a variety of community-driven events, including: family nights, showers, parties, and more. The Ojedas have a family of four and want to prioritize kid-friendly nights and quality time within the coffee shop. Some ideas include trunk or treat, bounce houses, and movie nights. Additionally, there will be parking for mothers which the family wants to prioritize as part of their community focus. The amazing staff at Dodo will be sure to welcome you with warm spirits and java. There will be barstools placed at the coffee bar to foster more intimate, personal conversations with the staff. The menu will feature a similar, limited drink list, which allows the baristas to master each concoction to their best ability. “We’ve made the recipes a science”, says Isaiah, who explains that a catalog of products turns out much more successful if you are really good at ten things, rather than constantly rotating the menu. Rumor has it they might be adding a few food items as well, but you’ll just have to visit the shop to see.
As the finishing touches go into place, excitement is building not just for the grand opening but for the conversations, collaborations, and friendships that will soon fill the air—alongside the familiar scent of fresh-brewed coffee. For loyal fans and newcomers alike, the new location promises to be more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee—it’s set to be a hub for creativity, conversation, and connection.
“Our big pillars are ‘good coffee, good people’”.
“The community has really evolved with us, and it's been a huge blessing for us.”